Music Fads: Part One

We all go through a point in our lives where it's really cool to like a certain thing. We MUST HAVE what is cool at that point and our lives seemingly depend on it. Pokemon, Ninja Turtles, Beanie Babies, and Hammer Pants were all things that were just too cool for school at some point in time.

Unfortunately, we see these same trends happen in music all the time. We call them fads and we are all victim to them. One of the biggest musical fads I have seen go in and out a couple times already is Ska. There are even designated time periods that ska has that clarified when it was popular and who was making it popular. First, Second, Third, and now even Fourth Wave Ska are all testaments of a genre that has continually swept in and out of popularity since its inception into the music scene in the late 60's and early 70's. When I got into it, Ska was in it's full-fledged third wave in the early 2000's when I was in high school and starting college. It seemed like there were endless amounts of punk and/or rock bands that were capitalizing on this music style made popular at the time by bands paving the way like Reel Big Fish & Catch 22.

We all are susceptible to musical growth, but are musical trends just one of those things that is the unfortunate casualty of this growth? Is ska music a genre that we all need to experience and be aware of on our ongoing path to musical enlightenment? I think so. I am very fond of these bands such as Reel Big Fish & Streetlight Manifesto, but I definitely don't identify with it as something that I listen to on a regular basis, and very rarely do I find someone that doesn't share these views. Does it mean that ska isn't cool to listen too? Absolutely not. It just appears that it's a fad that goes in and out of style every few years.

WHY THOUGH?! Why doesn't ska have the staying power to stay a relevant genre for more than a couple of years at a time? I am at a loss for this information.

Reel Big Fish's "Turn The Radio Off...", Catch 22's "Keasby Night's", and Streetlight Manifesto's "Everything Went Numb" are all groundbreaking albums that broke down barriers of what ska can be and do. They all have much of the chemistry needed to be incredibly popular albums, but get lost in the sands of time, as well as the tides and waves that ska falls victim to. Bands like NOFX, and Rancid draw influence from the ska and reggae scene, but do not rely on it to maintain their popularity and follow these same waves of popularity with the inclusion of ska influences in their music and on their respective labels.

In the end, it is just food for thought. I don't have the answer for why this happens; especially with ska. I guess I'm just looking for the answers myself.



1. Streetlight Manifesto- "Everything Went Numb"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XKs8TsY3XI

2. Reel Big Fish- "Beer"
www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCgX4ixCRcQ&noredirect=1

Blink 182- Neighborhoods

Without a doubt, this has been for me personally the most anticipated release of this year. I have been a diehard Blink fan since I can remember. The fact that they have gone through such a great amount of turmoil, and a growth experience that has been unrivaled amongst so many other pop-punk bands; has led me to become even more stoked about what they have to offer after a long, long eight years.

Upon purchasing this album, I was so eager, nervous, and incredibly excited to hear Blink as what they described themselves as: a more modern, mature, but still relevant form of what everybody came to know and love them as.

The first song "Ghosts On The Dancefloor" sets the mood for the album with its proggy guitar riff, synth layers, and dance-oriented drums. The lyrics set the same landscape by crooning "I saw your ghost tonight, the moment felt so real." The bridge is the only part of the song that is questionable, with its unnecessary noodling, and Barker's flashy excuses to place himself in the rock drummers' heirarchy.

"Natives" is such a great example of what the band was and what the band is. The opening riff is very reminiscent of "M+M's" opening guitar part, while the trade-off of vocals and musical styles in the chorus reminds me of a song on TOYPAJ. The final chorus bleeds a passion for melody that easily makes this my favorite song on the album.

Refer to my earlier post regarding "Up All Night", the first single on the album. My opinion remains the same.

"After Midnight" is by many opinions an "instant classic" as far as the Blink 182 catalog is concerned. It is instantly catchy in the verses as well as the choruses, and is equally easy to sing along to.

"Snake Charmer" finds itself reminiscent of Delonge's side project Boxcarracer, complete with heavy riffs and dissonant chords. I think that the crowning achievement of this song is the outro and flow into the second half of the album. Regardless of this fact, the guitar riff in the song is heavy as fuck, and makes you want to learn how to play it and think you can find beauty in such simplicity.

"Hearts all Gone Interlude"- One of the most delicate and well thought out songs on the record in my opinion. This is exactly where my tastes lie... somewhere in between coherence and progressive rock craziness.

Where this progressive rock ends, and the straight forward rock begins is such a great transition and sets the mood for the second half of the album. "Hearts all Gone" is a simple, pop-punk track that yearns for the youth and angst that Blink came from; but also the darkness that has helped this machine come what it has today. The bass is screams through the song with such authority, and the lyrics makes me rethink every relationship I've ever had.

It's hard to listen to the song "Wishing Well" without thinking about the lyrics to the early Blink song "Carousel", but the pre-chorus's "la-da-da-da-da-da-das" make it difficult to not sing along. It's such a cool song about finding yourself, and it's so catchy.

"Kaleidescope" is definitely a Hoppus track. It's decidedly more concise easier to digest, and much more indie-rock oriented than a lot of the record. It's cool that there's this dichotomy on the record.

In listening to interviews about "This Is Home", it's interesting that the song was actually written by Mark Hoppus, but ended up being sung by Tom Delonge. It makes this sing have a little more meaning, and it's reassuring to know that they actually worked together to make this record; regardless of being in separate studios. It's synthy domination, and use of acoustic guitars throughout make this a much more interesting song if listened to at more than face value.

"MH 4.18.2011" is another one of Mark's tracks that brings it home to the indie/pop-punk craftwork that he is known for. It's another anthem that voices the fact that we have a lot more to be thankful for than we really know.

"Love is Dangerous" is, for lack of better words ominous and creepy. The octave lyrics in the verses leave me with the chills every time.

"Fighting The Gravity" got the most negative reviews from the whole album from others, while I think it's one of the coolest tracks. It's super electronic, dark, progressive, and not really what I would expect from these guys at all. Once again, it borders between coherence and oblivion; which is exactly where my tastes lie. I'm so impressed with this song and how weird it is. I can't say enough good things about this song.

The last song "Even if She Falls" (which is only on the deluxe edition I might add) is the only song in this set that I would categorize as filler. I'm not really sure if I like it still. It just seems like regurgitation of what people wanted to hear. Don't get me wrong, it's catchy, fun, and upbeat, but it seems to lack the depth that the other songs possess on the album.



What I have to say about this album is that I'm impressed with where they decided to go with it. I thoroughly enjoy listening to it (I've probably played it through ten or more time since I got it). What I'm more interested to hear is where they'll go next. It seems like it's more of a stepping stone into being a more mature and pragmatic band than they were previously. When you break it down, it has many of the same song, chord, and album structures, that identifies itself as a Blink 182 album. That is what people like, and I'm VERY, VERY ok with that. However, with benchmarks like "Fighting The Gravity" and "Natives" that set this album very much apart from what they have done previously, I want to see what this band can do if they set there minds out to create something really creative, progressive and different.

It's just another monday night in paradise

With admittedly nothing to really write about, I've got 10 shuffle picks to keep things moving since we've got the new Thirce (Major/Minor) coming out tomorrow, and the new Blink 182 (Neighborhoods) coming out next Tuesday. There's definitely going to be a lot to write about in the next couple weeks, but until then random songs on my itunes will have to do.

1. Cat Power- "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" -The Covers Record

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W97TF9PCKWg

A haunting cover of a great song. I wouldn't say it's better or worse than The Rolling Stones, it's just different

2. Rivers Cuomo- "Wanda (You're My Only Love)"- Alone: The Home Recordings

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W48yINUF_1A

Rivers' musings alone in his room are all like blueprints of Weezer songs that were just a little too weird to make it to a record. Some of them are SO good, and some are just kinda out there. "Wanda" is a cool introspect into Cuomo's mind outside of Weezer.

3. Radiohead- "Bloom" -King Of Limbs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1g6R89fCUBE

Radiohead is doing cool shit as far as releasing their music in a changing landscape. Bloom is a song that I need to listen to more, along with the entire album. I don't quite get it, but I think if I get really stoned it might make a lot of sense.

4. Radiohead- "15 Steps" -In Rainbows

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tk4goNqMdwE

I love this song. The guitar line is catchy, and Yorke's lyrics and melody line keep you interested. A small relapse into coherence in later Radiohead work.

5. Rise Against- "Give it All" - Rock Against Bush Vol: 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhldbymXK-8

To me, the heart's there, but the music is not. I like that they're trying to send a message in their music, but I think the music is boring and over produced "punk". (read my previous post for my rant on this genre.)

6. A.F.I.- "Bleed Black" - Sing The Sorrow

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llzNXZ5JFlM

Now this! This, is a quintessential punk rock record in my opinion. Everything in this song and record breathes what progression and punk rock should be; and why they should go hand in hand. I love this song.

7. Mars Volta- "Intertiatic E.S.P." - Deloused in the Comatorium

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vzRFlXbq-cY

Such a great song. It's a damn shame the band got so incoherent after this album. Octahedron is close to where this band started out, let's hope Omar can sacrifice some of his noodling for melody on their next effort

8. Jimmy Chamberlain Complex- "Loki Cat" - Life Begins Again

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMAZubL9VzQ

Though this song gets some help from former companion and Pumpkins bandmate Billy Corgan, The Jimmy Chamberlain Complex sets itself apart from the Pumpkins with its jazz/fusion sound and Chamberlain's booming and complex (but amazing) drum beats. He knows when to be upfront and when to keep the time.

9. The Strokes- "Two Kinds of Happiness" - Angles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6J385pjZzfA

I'm sad to say that this record coming out earlier this year was one of the bigger disappointments as far as records go. There was so much hype surrounding its release, and I was greeted by something I was not impressed with. It seems like they got stuck in a rut with this record, and the song is no different. I like this song/record, but I think that they could've done something better.

10. Bloc Party- "Halo" -Intimacy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6J385pjZzfA

Bloc Party is one of my favorite bands for so many reason. They are ambitious, different, complex, but they manage to keep you hooked with memorable riffs and melodies. I had a hard time getting into this record, but the time spent was worth it.

What is punk rock? Or even music for that matter?

The simple statement of these questions can unlock a feud that could never be solved. Even though there is no definitive answer, the question begs for one simply because anything resembling it is SO multifaceted.

So to answer the seemingly unanswerable, let's first look at some basics here.

Punk rock was started as a counter-culture movement. Whoever we deem "the founders" (i.e. Sex Pistols, Ramones, Velvet Underground) It doesn't really matter. It started as a group of artists and musicians that disagreed with the popular culture of the mid 70's and wanted to change it by doing something different. By creating a community and culture that thrived on seperating from the norm, an amazing group of people; and eventually a genre flourished into something many people could call "home". It was a thing where the freaks and the geeks were in control.


Unfortunately, like anything else the genre got flooded by people that believed they could make money, be cool (how ironic), and capitalize on something like punk rock that had become so near and dear to people's hearts. Through the incorporation of punk as a genre, people seemed to quickly become judgmental within the punk community as to what is deemed "punk rock" by calling out any band that came along that strayed from the blueprint that the genre had created for itself.

So, when you think about it, punk rock as a whole completely turned it's back on it's very own musical ideals. Eventually bands like Bad Religion, Rancid, and NOFX were thrown into the well known pop-punk pile and advertised as sell outs because they wrote catchy songs people from the "popular culture" liked. Bands that take D.I.Y. ideals, or punk rock song structures, are characterized as posers, sellouts, etc.

That brings me to my next point, music is about making it your own. There would be no culture or genre if everything followed a blueprint of what your music was supposed to sound like. Who cares if a band like Yellowcard has a violin, and embraces pop music song structures and hooks? Who cares if Blink 182 puts out a record that doesn't sound anything like their last one? I also feel like Elliot Smith fits ideally into the category of punk. He also did something different, but embraced the ideals of a community he grew up in.

To me, this is the most punk rock thing someone can do; which is go against what the status quo has made punk out to be. Music is about progression. Art is about progression. Passion is passion, and chastising someone for their art should be a crime. If you're not into it don't listen to it.

With all of that being said, the simple answer to "What is Punk Rock?" is doing something that you want to do. In the words of Mathew Lillard's character in SLC Punk! : "If you want to break it down, the best way to do it is from the inside."

If you want to change what popular music is, the most punk thing to do is become part of it by doing something that is different and that people will recognize as doing so.

Blink 182's "Up All Night"

If you are not familiar with Blink 182 other than 3 guys who put out songs in the late 90's and early 2000's about balls, wieners, and inappropriate jokes about your mom; than they definitely have been warranted a second look.

Recently the band put out a new single entitled "Up All Night" after an eight year hiatus consisting of feuding band members, fighting spouses, and a few side projects. (Mark Hoppus & Travis Barker's +44, an electronic tinged "Hoppus-song heavy" collaboration; Tom DeLonge's stadium rock Angels and Airwaves, as well as individual work such as successful producing careers from both Barker & Hoppus. The later producing records from Motion City Soundtrack most notably, and Barker remixing a slew of hip-hop songs.)

Understandably, many are very skeptical as to what a new Blink song will "sound like" given these many and varying paths each have chosen to take. However, it is also important to remind ourselves of the band's last effort, (Blink 182, 2003) which showed us that these guys do have the talent & the dedication to put out a legit rock record that still managed to keep you singing along; sans dick jokes.

All that being said, I found myself about as giddy as a 13 year old girl before a Justin Bieber concert, anxiously checking my phone for updates last Thursday night as to when I could listen to a new effort from the band.

After an initial listen, and just getting my boyish anxiousness out of the way; it was important to critique the song for what it was: a Blink 182 song. Markedly poppy, simple, but fuck! Fun to listen too.

Lyrics/Melody:

For something that's been hyped up for so long, I was kind of disappointed that the lyrics seem hastily put together and at some points fail to flow into each other. It gives the impression that Hoppus & Delonge are fighting for lead vocals on the song, with Delonge pushing himself to the front by stomping on Hoppus's last line in the verses to start the pre-choruses. Beside that fact the harmonies in the chorus are pretty cool and they flow nicely. The lyrics and melody are catchy and fun, but with pretty dark lyrics and a 'glass half-empty' mentality.

Song Structure/Production:

It seems like they are trying to be different just for the hell of it. Many of the parts are based in groups of 3's and 5's, (where a typical pop song would be 2's and 4's). This is great though. I like the fact that it's just a bit different and not everyone is going to pick up on that fact. The chord structures are of typical Blink 182 nature, employing the traditional "box" chord structure that makes a lot of pop-punk bands sound like they do. The verse's guitar hangs on the root while the bass plays along the structure, the chorus unites the guitar and bass (with a little lead guitar riff buried in the corner) , and the intro/outro riff is interesting but still plays along the same structure. Simple. But simple is right, if it isn't broken don't fix it; just make it a little more interesting and fun for us music geeks out there.

Mixing:

This the thing that both made me really happy, but also I was most skeptical about. It is ambitious and different. The thing that I noticed the most is that each band member seems to make themselves sound how they want, and not what would be a cohesive sound for the band. The pre-chorus lyrics (Delonge) are swimming in reverb while the rest of the song stays quite dry in comparison, the drums are very biting and are pretty much a copy/paste of what the drums sound like on Barker's solo album; which I am not a fan of. There is also some synth program or pad that plays through the intro/outro and choruses that is borderline annoying and very unnecessary. Also, the bass pattern in the verses does not play to the drums?! Come on. The thing I am the biggest fan of is Hoppus's conservative approach to his singing and bass playing (minus the verse pattern) in mixing and production that still lets us know that there is a sane ear left in Blink 182.

All in All Critique:

I think that this is a great song at face value. It is a simple, catchy, and more mature version of Blink 182 that I am very excited to see and hear more of. It shows every single part of where the band has been individually and as a whole, showcasing important values the members have learned through working in other projects. I've heard things like "it sounds too much like Angels and Airwaves/+44/Boxcarracer, not enough/too much Mark/Tom. I think it sounds like a stronger and healthier Blink 182; which is right where they need to be. Their new album "Neighborhoods" drops on September 27th, and I am super excited to hear what this band has been up too.

So check this song out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkoCkva-rBc

It's all about knowing your limits

We can all apply this term to many, many contexts of our lives. However, in the music world, how many theoretical drinks are too many?

I am sitting here at my desk trying to apply this analogy to some of my favorite groups of bands. The stipulation being: a band that broke up and formed two equally as successful groups that have separate; and sometimes equal purposes.

(*Disclaimer* since this is my blog, I am not going to be objective in my statements. This is a strictly opinionated point of view. I like both bands equally in the end.)

I am of course talking about the timeless controversy of The Mars Volta V. Sparta. Both bands formed from the remnants of the iconic post-hardcore group At The Drive In, which achieved mild success in the early 2000's with the song "One-Armed Scissor".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NYbojdoAQE

Between two guitarists' Omar Rodriguez-Lopez and Jim Ward's duality of pop sensibility (Ward), and progressive/ambient (Rodriguez-Lopez) influences, the group maintained an incredible balance of power throughout their short but eventful career. The result of this unstable combination proved to be one that was incredibly tasty, but you wouldn't be able to remember past your first sip. (tacky alcohol related reference).

The unstable combination proved true when the band split in 2001, leaving fans waiting for what would come next. Singer Cedric Bixler-Zavala and Guitarist Omar Rodriguez-Lopez went on to form progressive rock band The Mars Volta, with a promising first effort entitled "De-Loused in the Comatorium" (2003) which was an amazing and understandable departure from ATDI's post-hardcore sound into a more mature, yet slightly less coherent sound that still aimed to please even the most skeptical Drive-In fan. HOWEVER, after this first record, one can clearly see why the departure occurred. With 2004's Frances the Mute, we are shown the ten minute noodling and unnecessary complexities that undoubtedly split the band up in the first place. The Mars Volta is without a doubt one of the most ambitious groups I've heard, but one that is ridiculously complex for no reason. To cite the alcohol references I mentioned earlier, The Mars Volta clearly "had to many". We get it. You're a good guitar player, you understand how your instrument works. Now let's just make it sound like something other than a beached whale.

On the other hand, we have Jim Ward (guitar/vocals); as well as Tony Haijar (drums) went on to form the alternative rock band Sparta. Sparta started off with a much quieter and well planned out start with Wiretap Scars (2002). We can clearly see where the melody came from in ATDI with this release. However, with the release of Porcelain (2004) the band truly found their ground as a more melodic, as well as more accessible effort from ATDI alums.

In my opinion, "Porcelain" is how a record should sound. Everything about it is, for lack of a better word, beautiful. There are no soft spots, slow points, or parts where one would question where the band came from or where they were going. It's hard to say anything bad about this record.

Even better in my eyes, is that the band decided to call it quits after their third record Threes (2006) to pursue other projects. How awesome is this? In complete contrast to The Mars Volta, they did not and are not bleeding and beating a dead horse by continuing something that is not permanent and/or is losing momentum. They quit while they were strong and dignified. They accomplished something admirable by putting out three great records that people liked and were full of great songs.

So in the end, what I have to offer is that bands are full of duality; and that is often what makes great music, both pre and post breakup. Both groups have put out good efforts, and some prove to be a bit more successful in any perception. It's important to have that pop sensibility, as well as that exploration that sends things close to the edge of coherence.

Rainy Day Reach

Music is all about moods, and the unseasonal rainy weather here in Reno incites a rather rare (and unseasonal) mood. Depression. Depression is one of those things that I've come to welcome with age. It's not that I like being depressed, but the state of mind helps me remember how awesome it is to be happy. It also reminds me a a very special time in my life where it was all I knew; and in retrospect how great of a period it was.

All I can think about during the rain is the soundtrack to the movie Garden State. The soundtrack and the movie do such an amazing job setting a very particular mood and mindset; and it is to exactly this weather. Zach Braff, who wrote & directed the movie, as well as hand-picked the soundtrack, could not have done a better job at doing so. To re-enstate what I just said, Braff does a beautiful job creating not only a mood for a movie, but a state of mind. If this could be classified as masterworks I would call it nothing less.

Coldplay, and The Shins. Admittedly a couple of bands that I'm most skeptical about give me one of the most beautiful feelings I can muster; comfort. I have never felt better listening to these artists' songs "Don't Panic" and "Caring is Creepy" with so much feeling and emotion along with a rainy, somewhat cold day.

There are no two artists that I associate with more entirely with the pattering of rain than these two.

Refining Tastes (part duex)

In continuation of my last post, here are some other bands that I've been really been into that are along the same vein as the others:

The Whitest Boy Alive- Dreams (2006)

"Burning"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hz1V0gaCsK4

Yet another band from northern Europe, The Whitest Boy Alive is a project that is definitely a lot more pop than rock. They have put out a couple records since this debut, but "Dreams" proves to be a groovy, poppy exploration into songwriting. I had quite a good time listening to this record, as it provides a good look into both lead singer/songwriter Ereland Oye's view of life and love; and a way to remember why he thinks that. Quite a cool album.


Miike Snow- Miike Snow (2009)

"Black & Blue"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oKQSAt4c4c

All I can say about this song, record, and band is "FUCK YES". Miike Snow, a Swedish dance/indie band was formed by famed producers and songwriters of the same nationality Christian Karlsson and Pontus Winnberg. Who are these people you might ask? They wrote many, many of the popular songs of the late 90's and early 2000's; most notably, but not limited to "Toxic" as performed by Brittany Spears. Amongst other heavy hitters such as Kylie Minouge, Christina Aguilera, and Jennifer Lopez. With names such as these we might say "REALLY?!" but these are probably some of the most talented songwriters I have ever encountered. Simply said, they write songs to sell to big name artists. With these minds working together on their own material, Miike Snow is in my opinion one of the most beautifully crafted records of the 2000's. There is not a single skip in the entire record. Each break, move, and transition is planned with complete and utter accuracy, as well as each lyric. These guys know what they're doing.

With credentials like these, it is hard not to give these guys a fighting chance; and it really isn't hard to. Also, it is important to check out their live show. Though I haven't personally seen them, they have a slew of HQ youtube videos that set themselves far far above other bands of the same genre, posting them in my book as one of my all time favorite electronic/pop/indie acts.

Refining Tastes

There comes a time in everyone's life when something that once seemed repulsive turns into something most loved; and vice versa. Whether this be someone you love, the music you love, religion, or anything for that matter; it seems to happen to everyone at some point.

I have come to a point in my listening of music where this has happened. Much of the music I find myself getting into are things I wouldn't have touched with a ten-foot pole even a year ago. These are all bands that are extremely concerned with melody and catchy-ness.

It's so funny to me that there was a point in my life where I was so concerned with being into bands that no one heard of that I had lost sight of the most important aspect of music: "Does it sound good?"

These following are all bands that I think almost everyone can listen to on this most primal level of music; it being memorable and fun to listen to.

Neon Trees- Habits (2010)

"Animal"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gM7Hlg75Mlo

I had the good fortune of being able to play with these guys last summer at KRZQ's "Spring Forward By Paying it Forward". I wish I had an idea of who these guys were then. All I remember is the lead singer sitting upstairs with us and thinking "who is this guy with the mohawk and super tight pants?" They played an amazing set that night, and I've been hooked on their feel-good mixture of pop, dance, and punk influences that just keep offering up catchy lines to sing in your head day in and out. The Utah (yes Utah) based band has gotten some good exposure opening up for bands such as The Killers, however they are one of those bands that should really be receiving more credit for being both an amazing live and studio act. Check them out.

Carolina Liar- Coming To Terms (2008)

"I'm Not Over"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijSg4NkOIeY

This LA based band that hails from Carolina, and Sweden are an incredible pop/rock outfit that have climbed to minor success with the singles "Show Me What I'm Looking For", and "I'm Not Over". Possibly their biggest claim to fame is working with acclaimed Swedish pop producer Max Martin (Britany Spears, *N'snyc, Kelly Clarkson, Pink) The product proves to be a beautifully crafted pop rock record that does not disappoint at any minute in the record.

This is one of those albums that you can listen too, sing along with, be proud you listen to it, and say the same guy that helped write it wrote "...Oops I Did it Again." by Britany Spears. Weird, but super cool in my opinion.




So in the end, just take a few hours and give these albums a chance. It may seem drab or conventional at first, but these are the kind of bands that should be the face of popular music. It's fun and easy to listen too, but they are backed by some amazing talent and credentials.

Faking It

What do you do when something amazing happens at exactly the wrong time? In my case I am finding some shelter in music. It is so insane to me that everything presents itself when it is supposed to, and tonight was no exception.

On my drive home I was feeling horrible. In fact, a decision I made earlier is currently enveloping me more than it should. Oh well.

Anyway, I decided to put on Brand New's album "The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me" to counteract and siphon my displeasure. This record has been one of my favorites ever since one of my good friends showed it to a couple years ago; with one exception. The song "Jesus Christ" just never did it for me. It always seemed like a single, dragging riff that kept you hanging just long enough until the next track started. Admittedly a track that I've skipped numerous times while listening to the album, however tonight this song really made an impression on me tonight.

"Jesus Christ" really pertains to the fact that music is all feeling and emotion. Such a simple riff recreated the most amazing and accurate emotion that I was feeling on my drive home. For the first time I really understood what Jesse Lacey was going for when he wrote this song. How much time, work, and feeling went into this. I commend you, good sir.

"Jesus Christ"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCCyuIEucYs&feature=fvwrel

Retrospection

A good friend and I started a project a few months back that is proving to be much more difficult than either of us thought; a 'sampler' of our progression and evolution in musical tastes from our first interests in music all the way to what is currently pumping out of our earbuds.

The biggest catch is that the playlist needs to fit on two audio CD's. Believe it or not, trying to both trace your musical taste while narrowing it down to a tangible playlist is really, really hard. So, in a primary attempt at slimming some songs down, here are some retrospect albums that I listened to on my drive to (and from) Tahoe today, accompanied by some favorite music videos to keep you non-readers (because SOOO many people read this) interested.

1. Paul Simon- Negotiations & Love Songs 1971-1986

"You Can Call Me Al"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOiVaE-pKqM

2. Blink 182- Dude Ranch (1997)

"Josie"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6kfin-UeAQ

3. Chumbawamba- Tubthumper (1997)

"Tubthumping"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2H5uWRjFsGc

4. Arctic Monkeys- Favourite Worst Nightmare (2007)

"Brainstorm"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGKWeu3gYHo&feature=fvst

5. Rage Against The Machine- Evil Empire (1996)

"Down Rodeo"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYlfQ-7zUUE&feature=fvwrel

Once again, an increasingly difficult task. Hopefully these are some picks that are a little bit more left field than what I've been posting about, even though the current music is just as important as the past and future music.

Top 5 Cince De Drinko picks

In honor of cinco de mayo (of which I wish I was celebrating) here's some fun songs that I enjoy that have to do with a favorite pastime of many; drinking! Enjoy Cinco De Mayo everyone!

1.Drinkin for 11/Just One More- Mad Caddies

2. This Addiction/This Addiciton- Alkaline Trio

3. Spaz's House Destruction Party/ Underground Network- Anti-Flag

4. LGFAD/ Commit This To Memory- Motion City Soundtrack

5. Reflections/Seven's Travels- Atmosphere

It's time to mix things up a bit

A great exercise for anyone in this day and age is to put their iTunes (or applicable music player) on shuffle mode and just listen. At least for me, I tend to become bored or fall into listening niches on a weekly on monthly basis. Shuffling is an excellent way to keep ourselves interested. It provides a great retrospect on our surprisingly eclectic music tastes.

Here's my first fifteen shuffle tunes that came up tonight; along with a short description of each:

(song/album/artist)

1. Everything Reminds Me of Her/Figure 8- Elliot Smith
I first got into Smith after a gnarly breakup. It reminds me of her (pun intended) but all in a good light. He's one of the first artists that I really connected with on a deeper level. Depression, drug use, and general discontent are all themes that run deep in Elliot Smith's music & lyrics; and are all things that one deals with at some time in their lives on many different levels. Fortunately happiness stemmed from listening and getting into Elliot Smith, so all I have to say is that this song reminds me of a time in my life that I learned a great deal from; and for that I am proud.

2. Kryptonite/The Better Life- 3 Doors Down
Really... I don't know where this came from or how it got on my iTunes, but shit; a great song. Simple, to the point, and it gets stuck in your head. It reminds of a time exactly like that. When music to me was a virgin experience, one that meant simply if it sounded good I liked it. I'm coming to realize that's still all that matters, but it's still one that is not as prestine as the first time I listened to this song.

3. Cold Hands/Crash Love- A.F.I.
This is admittedly a band that I'm becoming less and less interested in through the years, however this song is one that I thoroughly enjoy. A nice, crunchy guitar riff provided by Jade Pugett drives the song, and the song moves seamlessly through intro/verse/choruses. I like it.

4. Onemosphere/God Loves Ugly- Atmosphere
What I love about Atmosphere is that the lyricist Slug (Sean Daley) has completely changed his perception of life throughout his career. This early album proves to be part of his "I'm a badass rapper" stage. Aside from that, Atmosphere is one of the few hip-hop outfits that I honestly LOVE. They are unique, fun, and keep you guessing. This song is no exception.

5. What It Is/ Genesis- Busta Rhymes
Again, I'm not sure how this is on my computer. It's really good to mix it up again. This songs reminds me of middle school. I remember talking to my mom on the way to school about how my dad watched MTV after we left to go to my earlybird Jazz Band class. I remember being really impressed that my dad was into Busta Rhymes (who wouldn't be). Not on my normal listening regime, but that's what this exercise is for, right?

6. Triad/ Lateralus- Tool
Math and Industrial rock collides. I like it. I am reminded of my friend Wyatt talking about how the inner sleeve of this album is laden with a math equation that is (for lack of a better phrase) "not easy to figure out or understand". Too is a band I desperately want to get into and understand, however I just can't find it in me to attach to it in any way. It's good, complex, and gives the listener a lot to think about moth lyrically and musically; but give me Blink 182's "What's My Age Again" over this any day.

7. I Belong To You/ Resistance- Muse
Easily my favorite song on this album. It's so delightfully sexy, beautiful, and easy to listen to. I LOVE this song. The bass clarinet solo gives me the chills every single time, and the piano interlude leaves me yearning for some mid-century classical music to drink a deep and complex red wine to. It is a simply beautiful song.

8. Crackity Jones/Doolittle- Pixies
A band that helped create the "loud/soft/loud" formula that paved the road for countless other artists. This song is a loud, fast, and sloppy number that shows where the Pixies came from. I love that a band that created such an iconic song as "Where is My Mind" also plowed through a gnarly punk rock song like this without any hesitation.

9. Hold On/ A Poet's Life- Tim Armstrong
The frontman of Rancid, Tim Armstrong helped all of us remember not to forget your roots. His solo album is nothing but pure rootsy old-school reggae. This song leaves me reminiscing the greatest winter I've had so far, spent with one of my greatest friends on the ski hill. I can recite this album from front to back because I've listened to it countless times.

10. Under Control/ Room On Fire- The Strokes
Junior Year. This was one of the first songs and albums that launched me into a further understanding of music. I always think of a band at a high school dance in the 1950's for some reason. The Strokes are band that I will always hold very close to my heart for breaking me out of a rut of punk rock that I might still be stuck in.

11. The Lady Killer Theme (Intro)/ The Lady Killer- Ceel Lo Green
Though not a justifiable "song", this album has reset my zero for what popular music can and should be. The entire record is so soulful and tinged with a 1970's vibe that has been; but should have not been forgotten. Thank you Cee Lo for bringing back real R&B

12. Immature/Homogenic- Bjork
Once again, Bjork is an artist that has brought me out of the box so to speak. She creates such beautiful textures between her voice and her music. It truly is art. I'd like to thank one of my good friends for introducing me to her at the right time in order to appreciate who she is as an artist. Bjork is a great example of pushing the bounds of what music can be

13. I Only Want You/ Peace Love DeathMetal- Eagles of Deathmetal
I chose to get a tattoo of this album's cover on my ankle simply because it entitles everything music should be. The side project of Queens of the Stone Age's lead man Josh Homme, this roots rock outfit is just fucking rad. It's so simple and rock & roll. I had the privilege of meeting the bands frontman Jesse Hughes here in Reno, and he holds true to his bands mentality, "Peace, Love, Deathmetal". I love how this band is just about gettin' drunk and having fun. That's what rock music is about right?

14. Just A Habit/ You In Reverse- Built To Spill
BTS is one of those bands that you have to be into at one point. They are a great post-grunge rock band with a folky vibe. They remind me of my friend Chris, and in turn, memories of warm Tahoe Summers spent at the beach appreciating music. Such a great album that is in all honesty an ALBUM, which is harder and harder to find these days. All they songs play into each other perfectly, and when it ends you are okay with it ending.

15. Room Without a Window/ Operation Ivy- Operation Ivy
Tim Armstrong from Rancid's previous project. It fuses ska, punk, and reggae into one glorious idea. The lyrics are often politically tinged, but still catchy none-the-less. I really enjoy listening to this band. They were one of the first bands that made the iconic Gilman Street venue in Berkley, Ca famous. This song reminds me of my first band, Secret Weapon 8, that followed along the same lines musically.

Chuckles & Mr. Squeezy-Dredg

I'm going to start this off with an extended rant. Bands grow. Musicians grow. People grow. Just because a band doesn't put out an album that is congruent with their past releases DOES NOT mean that it is a bad album. I'm really really disappointed with the lack of respect the musical community has given dredg upon releasing their fifth studio album "Chuckles & Mr. Squeezy" . I have read things such as "bland", "losing their rock edge", and most notably "what in God's name happened?"

Come on people! What would happen if bands didn't stir the pot and come out with a left of center album every once in a while? We'd be stuck with a predictable community of bands that put out the same meaningless bullshit year after year just to satisfy our need for something that is familiar and we can listen to without being scared of what comes next.

If there's anyone that I thought would understand this; it was the seemingly faithful community of dredg listeners. I mean, seriously, the band has not put out 2 albums that sound remotely the same. Each EP, LP, Album, and anything recorded is realistically but also radically different from what was released last. "The Pariah, The Parrot, and the Delusion" (2007) proved to be a large departure from what they had accomplished previously; as well as a huge step towards what was to come in the future (i.e. chuckles)

Does anyone remember a little band called The Beatles? Or a small outfit called Radiohead? Or maybe for you music geeks out there some band named Muse? These bands are defined by reinventing themselves! They have not put out any recording that was not revolutionary or radicaly different from what came before.

So I invite and challenge all of you to just take a retrospective look at what music means to you. To me, It is evolution. It is progression. It is about putting out a product that is both challenging to the artists' and the listeners' ears, and is also fun for the artist to play/produce, and listener to evaluate.

With that said, let's all take a step back and listen to our favorite artists' new album with objective ears, and be sensitive to what the artists' growth and musical exploration really means.



In my case, this is dredg's latest release.


Upon first listening, it is without an album that is sparse on guitar, heavy on synthesized beats, and bleeding with singer Gavin Hayes' relatable lyrics describing past love interests and less notably his perceptions on society. HOWEVER, it as an album that without a doubt keeps you interested from beginning to end. From the opener "Another Tribe" which is strangely (as well as pleasantly) reminiscent of coolio's "gangster's paradise" to the mid-album track "Somebody is Laughing", that is tinged with sitar riffs, digitized drums, and beautifully layered vocals; the album proves to be one that is both infinitely catchy and one that leaves you analyzing what they did to leave these songs stuck in your head.

With Dan the Automator (Gorillaz-2001, Head Automatica-2004) at the helm both producing and taking an active part in songwriting on the album, it is without a doubt a departure from what the band has released with its previous efforts.

All of that said, "Chuckles & Mr. Squeezy" is (for open ears) an album that is simply incredible. It fuses almost every musical genre I can muster my poor brain to think up plus a thousand more. It is without a doubt a true music appreciator's source for something new and inviting.

Please check it out and support progressive and GOOD music!

Official Website: http://dredg.com/



Notable songs/videos:

Ode To the Sun: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHWw9K7iCH8

Information: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYexhc0MqQQ

Catch Without Arms (live): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APAJ0TRhFoM

If you're still reading, CHECK OUT THIS BAND AND GIVE THEM A CHANCE.

Communitst Daughter

Though they broke up in 1998, Neutral Milk Hotel is easily my favorite band so far this year. Much along the same vein as singer/songwriters that are just fed up with the world such as Nick Drake, Elliot Smith, and Jose Gonzales; frontman Jeff Mangum sings lyrics that describe his bittersweet perspective of reality. It is so easy to become immersed into the world that Neutral Milk Hotel portrays and listen to nothing but them for weeks on end, emerging from the binge hungover, somehow addicted to cigarettes, depressed, and wondering what happened in the past month.

For me, bands that can leave a lasting impression on you like this are ones that should be noticed. Though they never achieved 'mainstream success' (whatever that means these days) they've managed to sell over 300,000 copies of their album "In the Aeroplane Over the Sea" and critical acclaim as "one of the most influential bands of the past 25 years" by Rolling Stone. With that being said, check out their small but eclectic catalog featuring songs such as "Two Headed Boy", "Oh Comely", "In The Areoplane Over the Sea", amongst many others.

NMH are not a complicated band hear, but and increasingly complicated band to understand. Mangum's voice is not for the faint of heart, and his lyrics offer no suffice. They are often cryptic, but at the same time incredibly simple; offering such sexual innuendos as "semen stains the mountaintops".

All innuendos aside, what matters the most is I CANNOT stop listening to this band for all of the reasons above. It just sticks with you like your ex-girlfriend that won't stop texting you. Seriously check out these guys through whatever avenue you can. Here's some youtube links to some of my favorite songs:

In the Areoplane Over the Sea:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6H8WcTPnWM

Two-Headed Boy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCxEWPLDg5c&feature=related

Oh Comely:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iipO9Tvk1EI&feature=related

Communist Daughter:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKGN1EDei7w

Nighty night

-TJ

ALBATROSS&anchor EP release show

I'm not going to lie; the only reason I went to this show was to see our buddies Lucas Young & The Wilderness, and also I'm not gonna lie and say I stayed there to watch the headliner The Fronteirsmen.

I'm sorry to say that I'm part of the curse of the Reno music scene that has trouble getting stoked on the local bands; but as long as we're being honest here, seeing one that I'm really impressed with comes very few and far between.

One exception last night was the likes of locals "Lucas Young & The Wilderness"

http://www.facebook.com/#!/lucasyoungandthewilderness

Young's project, which features a rotating cast of musicians was one band that I was really impressed with; especially given the circumstances under which the group had to practice. They were able to rehearse twice before their debut show.

The band, which came fully equipped with 4 (yes four) guitars (Lucas Stephenson- Vocals/guitar, Sean Nelligan- guitar, Roger Brown- guitar/keyboards, and Timothy Weber - "Ole' Nashville" as his acoustic was so lovingly referred to as) only faced minor setbacks given the wall of sound 4 guitars can produce. Each guitarist had parts that complimented and without a doubt needed to be part of the song. (I realized this as Brown's guitar cut out mid-song; leaving a distinct hole where his part should be) Tim's acoustic was more seen than heard, however there would have undoubtedly been something missing if he had not been playing. Nelligan's leads were as buttery as a cold miller high life, Lucas held down the rhythm parts as the obvious leader of the band, and Roger complimented Lucas' parts seamlessly. Despite minor tuning issues, I was incredibly impressed how the 4 guitars worked together with ease to create the sound that they did.

Colin Christian, who owns and operates Stretchwire Sound, a recording studio in sparks; was recruited to play bass. Christian is a bass player that moves with ease and experience. Many people forget how important an actual bassist is to a band, and Colin proved this last night. His parts are featured when they need to be, but also simple and in the groove.

Darryl Mullikin splits his time between session drumming here in Reno and playing with the Portland band Icarus The Owl.

http://www.facebook.com/#!/Icarustheowl

Darryl's drumming is for lack of a better word, impressive. The guys got some serious chops. Like Christian though, he knows where and when to use them and where to be the time keeper. He played through every song without a hiccup, and it's always fun to see how he keeps himself interested both with stage presence and his ever-changing stage setup; which last night consisted of a floor-tom in place of the rack-tom and some impressively large cymbals to boot.

Lucas' vocals are sweet and sultry with a southern tinge that always seem to stick in your head, and he too failed to skip a beat by serenading the crowd with his catchy melodies throughout the set.

As a whole, the band played very well together throughout their set, each song was easily differentiated from one another and had it's own unique quality. My personal favorite was "This Lonely Ocean" which sets a laid-back 6/8 groove to an excellent melody line, culminating with a powerful chorus that eventually sweeps back into the intro riff and Lucas singing.

All in all, I can't wait to see what they have in store for us next, great band, great songs, great show.


The next band was an out-of-towner called "The Crosswalk". I was so excited as they entered their first song with a bluesy riff and lyric that was very reminiscent of a newer Kings of Leon song. However, then fun stopped when they launched their second song only to set themselves back with the ever-present "emo-scream" and post-punk breakdown that lumps so many bands together. This band has great potential, and some really good ideas, but I lost interest as soon as the second, third, and forth song started sounding exactly the same.

ALBATROSS&anchor (http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/ALBATROSSanchor/169915506367729?sk=info) is the folk-tinged side-project of Tim from alldaydrive. The show was their EP release show, and it was obvious that a large portion of the crowd was there to see them. The band consists Tim on Vocals/banjo/guitar, and (I'm sorry I don't know the names to place on the other musicians) a keyboard/harmony vocalist, electric guitar, bass, drums, and fiddle.

The first song was plagued by some technical difficulties, leaving the crowd with their hands on their ears. The band solidly moved through their set though, putting their folky vibe on foot-tapping pop-punk songs. Twas a good set to say the least.

It was a good night of good music. Once again, I'm sorry to say that I missed The Frontiersmen (I hear they play a great live set) but the idea of sleep got the best of me.

It looks like the local scene is once again in a revival stage, and I hope this time it sticks around a little bit longer. There's a lot of good things up and coming, and all of the locals that I saw proved that last night. So if you're thinking about a good time to connect yourself, it is now because it may all be dead again in a matter of months. Check out any of these bands via the links I posted or just search on facebook to see their schedule for shows coming up.

Thank you and goodnight,

TJ

The Queens do it right!

Queens of the Stone Age are currently touring in support of the reissue of their self titled 1998 debut release that without a doubt put the genre of "stoner rock" into the ears of mainstream listeners.

I'm so glad that they are reissuing this album because their first two efforts "Queens of the Stone Age" (1998) and "Rated R" (2000) (reissued in summer of last year) are severely underrated records that deserve notoriety as foundations for more current rock music. Both of these albums set the stage for the riff rock and/or indie band revival that has only recently hit the mainstream i.e. Kings of Leon, Manchester Orchestra, Cage the Elephant.

It's such a shame that so many albums and bands go by the wayside just because they hit the scene at the wrong place or time, and I think that the Queens' debut was one of those. It's great that they have the opportunity; much less the balls to tour in support of an album that's almost 13 years old.

If you haven't listened to it, hit up your friends for a copy, or go grab the reissue at your local record store (Go to Discology if you live in Reno) for a lush remastered and expanded version of the album featuring b-sides from the original sessions, or you can stream the entire album on their website here:

http://qotsa.heroku.com/

The band also performed "If Only" recently on Conan:

http://www.totallyfuzzy.net/ourtube/queens-of-the-stone-age/if-only-live-conan-video_871e4c437.html

Foo Fighters- Wasting Light

To start this off, I have been an avid Foo Fighters fan ever since two of my best friends Chris & Cameron introduced me to them sophomore year of high school. Ever since then they have had a special place in my heart (thanks C&C) for so many reasons.

Foo Fighters have a way of making music sound so emotional, from the heart, and REAL without being whiny. Their songwriting, with lack of a better phrase, always sends chills down my spine; and "Wasting Light" is no exception.

The album careens like an out of control freight train into your head with a first line that no one will ever forget "These are my famous last wooorrrddss!!"

Like almost every other first song on a Foos record, "Bridge Burning" immediately sets the tone for the album; and in this case it is a fast, raw, yet extremely catchy set of songs that just will not stay out of your head.

Without a second to waste, the flagship single "rope" plows forward with an eclectic sound that combines drummer Taylor Hawkins' relaxed style and insane rudiments with Grohl's incessantly catchy chord structures to create a song that has the sheen of a seasoned alternative rock band with the rawness of a group of 15 year olds playing punk rock for the first time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbpqZT_56Ns

"Dear Rosemary" features Bob Mould of Husker Du (sorry I don't know how to type an umlat) fame on guitar and vocals. Like any of the other songs it fails to disappoint by laying out an excellent canvas for Mould to paint his unique take on music with.

If you haven't seen the video for "White Limo" check it out, then read the rest of this.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebJ2brErERQ

The song has a definite Motorhead tinge to it (Lemmy Kilmister from Motorhead stars in the video as the limo driver), with its raspy, but at most times screaming vocals that once again give the album it's refreshing dichotomy of seasoned professionals v. punk rock kids amalgamated into one helplessly catchy mix.

"Alandria" proves to be the first in a rather short series of songs that could've fit on another Foo record besides "Wasting Light"; yet still seems to stay completely unique from other songs in their catalouge. It resounds with the heaviness of the other songs; however it can't help but create a more melodic, sullen mood in contrast with the first four songs. Grohl seems to reminisce about his hometown of Alexandria, Virginia by creating a female persona for the town so the listener to identify with it more easily. It seems like an exceptionally personal piece regarding where and how Grohl grew up and how he seems feels about it.

"These Days" echoes songs and sounds off of the initial Foos record "Foo Fighters" (1994) by following the 'loud-soft-loud' formula that helped make Nirvana famous. It is the most personal song on the record for me, as it reflects issues and crystal clear references in my personal life; so it's easy to say it is my favorite song on the record for me at the time of this posting. Besides that fact, it is a great window that Grohl created to show where the Foo Fighters came; from and how they got there.

"Back and Forth" easily gets the award for catchiest chorus on the album with both its melody line and lyrics such as "show a little back bone why don't you/I'm lookin' for some back and forth with you, are you feelin the same as I do/ now and then" Without doubt, the most straightforward and easily accessible lyrics on the album.

In what my opinion starts the second side of the album (for all you vinyl junkees out there) "Matter of Time" sets the mood for the tail end of the record by creating a more melodic 'deep cuts' vibe that was touched on by "Alandria".

The title "Miss the Misery" oddly reminds me of A.F.I or Misfits tracks of similar names. However it's bluesy tone and lyric 'You're wasting Light' that titles the the album easily sets it in the same realm as a Pearl Jam meets Tom Petty meets Nirvana track with Grohl's tinge that makes it a shining light as a later album track.

In mentioning Nirvana, "I Should Have Known" features Krist Novaselick on Bass. With Butch Vig (Garbage, produced Nirvana's 'Nevermind') producing the entire record; as well as Pat Smear (The Germs, touring guitarist for late Nirvana) playing guitar, it is the closest thing to a Nirvana reunion we can get; and it does not disappoint. It opens with an Erie guitar riff and string part that is unlike any other song on the album, and progresses to become an incredibly heartfelt song that can strike a chord with any listener.

The Last song on the album "Walk" is much like the last song most other Foo record. It proves to go out on a strong and resolving note, while still leaving us asking "When can we hear more?!" It reminds me a lot of "MIA" off of "The Colour and the Shape" (1996) with it's simple, palm muted eighth note verse followed by a powerful chorus.

If you're skipping to the last paragraph, take one thing from this review. This Foo Fighters record is probably the best that's come out since "There's Nothing Left To Lose" (1998). Not to say that the interim records weren't amazing, but as an album this is the most solid I've heard from the group since then. In my opinion, this is exactly what a band of this caliber shoud be doing right now, which is exploring their creative boundaries while still staying incredibly true to their roots. Dave Grohl and his band (Taylor Hawkins-Drums, Chris Shiflett-Guitar, Nate Mendel-Bass, Pat Smear-Guitar) are one of the most talented group of musicians I can think of, and this most recent effort without a doubt showcases these talents.

To many more great albums for the Foo Fighters- I bid you goodnight.

-TJ

Here we go

Through this experience that we call life, I've realized that I like doing one thing the most; and that's listening to music and talking about how it was listening to it. If there's one thing I have an endless opinion about, it's music. Whether it's a new album, live concert, or just what I'm listening too lately, it seems like a productive idea to post some reviews and playlists spotlighting what I've been interested in and what I think about it.

I'll post reviews on both new albums (there's A LOT of good ones coming out this summer) or albums that I've just discovered or find interesting. So... on that note, here's some of the albums and/or songs that I've been frequenting lately:

(The list consists of albums unless otherwise noted)

1. Foo Fighters- Wasting Light (review coming in my next post)
2. The Temper Trap- Conditions
3. Thrice- Beggars
4. Ugly Cassanova- Sharpen Your Teeth
5. +44- When Your Heart Stops Beating
6. Mute Math- Mute Math
7. Neutral Milk Hotel- In the Aeroplane Over the Sea
8. Elliot Smith- Figure 8
9. U2- Greatest Hits
10. Silversun Pickups- Swoon

These have mainly been my "on the way to work" or "on my way home from work" staples that are either to wake me up, ease me into/out of the day; but they're mostly just plain cool albums and songs that I find myself listening too until I go to sleep.

On a closing note, I'm thinking the point of this blog is to get music that should be heard out there. There's so much amazing music that the masses (including myself) don't get to hear, and all I want to do is turn a few people on to some crunchy tunes. If anybody has suggestions, please email me and I'll be happy to listen to it and let you know what I think!